‘‘It mightn’t be what I want but it’s always a gift,’’ she said, before Terry adds: ‘‘Beggars can’t be choosers’’.

For the Parfreys, 2014 marks many milestones. Terry has already celebrated his 70th birthday in January and Coral will celebrate hers in April, while their grandson, Bradley, will celebrate his 21st birthday in November.

The couple plan to enjoy dinner at a restaurant to mark the golden anniversary, and have received letters of congratulations from Prime Minister Tony Abbott, Governor-General Quentin Bryce, the NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell, NSW Governor Marie Bashir and MP Parliament of NSW Shelley Hancock.